Day 1 — July 16, 2026
Navigating the Nervous System: Core Concepts and Clinical Applications with Deb Dana
Every therapeutic encounter is a meeting of nervous systems. Beneath the words, the autonomic nervous system — ours and our clients' — is quietly at work, always listening, shaping the stories we tell ourselves, and influencing our capacity for safety, connection, and change. Understanding this autonomic experience is at the heart of what Polyvagal Theory offers clinicians.
The day begins with a clear grounding in the three organizing principles of Polyvagal Theory — hierarchy, neuroception, and co-regulation — what they mean, why they matter, and how they show up in the clinical relationship. From there, we move into mapping and tracking autonomic state shifts in session, recognizing the role of co-regulation in treatment outcomes, and exploring how to weave polyvagal-informed language and interventions into existing practice.
Whether you're new to Polyvagal Theory or returning to revisit the core principles, you'll leave with a deeper understanding of how the nervous system shapes the therapeutic relationship and practical tools you can bring into your work right away.
Participants Will:
(Place as bullet list)
Explore the three organizing principles of Polyvagal Theory and learn to use them to guide clients in reshaping their systems
Engage in autonomic mapping to explore the landscape of the nervous system
Use the elements of the social engagement system to find and foster safety in connection
Track states of regulation and dysregulation as they emerge in sessions
Listen to the unique stories of autonomic states
Practice Savoring, SIFTing, Anchoring, and Glimmering
Bring the wisdom of the nervous system into your clinical work and discover a new way of accompanying your clients on their journey toward healing.